Hyacinth Beans, The Unrelated Bean at Ban Pak Ing, Chiang Khong

Hyacinth Beans, The Unrelated Bean at Ban Pak Ing, Chiang Khong

When talking about tranquility and the simple lifestyle of villagers in Chiang Rai, many would surely think of Chiang Khong District located along the Mekong River. This is the route where I, mr.hotsia, had the chance to drive out from Chiang Rai city, passing through roads surrounded by mountains and lush nature, to visit a small community called “Ban Pak Ing.” Here, there is a unique local treasure rarely mentioned: the “hyacinth bean,” or as the locals playfully call it, the “unrelated bean.”

Many might wonder, what exactly is the hyacinth bean? I thought the same until I took a walk in the villagers’ bean gardens here. The atmosphere was filled with the shade of large trees and carefully tended bean plots. The villagers explained that the “unrelated bean” is a native bean variety cultivated for a long time, unrelated to the common hyacinth bean we know. It is a bean with a sweeter, richer, and crunchier taste than usual beans, perfect for cooking or eating fresh as a snack.

Visiting Ban Pak Ing this time, I not only witnessed the organic farming lifestyle that the villagers still uphold but also got to taste home-style hyacinth bean dishes made with local ingredients, such as stir-fried hyacinth beans with oyster sauce or boiled hyacinth beans dipped in spicy chili paste with a bold and harmonious flavor. The freshness of the beans makes these dishes natural and charmingly different from typical city restaurants in Chiang Rai.

Ban Pak Ing is located not far from the main Chiang Rai-Chiang Khong route. For those staying in Chiang Rai city, I recommend finding a comfortable and affordable place to stay, such asSuknirand Hotelwhere I once stayed near the Chiang Rai Clock Tower, a very convenient location for starting a trip and strolling around the city before heading to Ban Pak Ing.

Villagers’ Lifestyle and Connection with Nature

What impressed me most at Ban Pak Ing was not just the hyacinth beans but the villagers’ lifestyle deeply connected with nature. Every morning, villagers tend to their vegetable and bean plots themselves, without rush, enjoying their work. I had the chance to talk with an elderly lady who shared the community’s changes over the past decade. Although the world moves faster, Ban Pak Ing has preserved its natural environment and traditional culture very well.

There is also a small market held by villagers on certain days to sell fresh produce, such as pesticide-free vegetables, seasonal fruits, and of course, fresh hyacinth beans that locals and tourists like me seek out to taste. For those who enjoy walking markets and tasting local food, you will see a variety of ingredients sourced from the surrounding nature. This is a great opportunity to truly experience life, not just pass by.

Connecting Chiang Rai with Ban Pak Ing

When people think of Chiang Rai, most imagine Wat Rong Khun or driving up to Doi Chang to enjoy famous coffee. But I, mr.hotsia, want to invite you to look a little deeper. At Ban Pak Ing, you can experience another side of Chiang Rai’s lifestyle that remains pure and simple. The journey from Chiang Rai city to Ban Pak Ing takes just over an hour, which is not far for those wanting to escape the hustle and seek new experiences.

If you want to relax in Chiang Rai city before traveling, I recommend reading my articleStrolling Around Chiang Rai Cityto plan visits to interesting attractions and dining spots, including morning and evening markets or the lively Saturday night walking street “Kad Chiang Khai Ram Luek.”

Travel Tips and What to Prepare

For traveling to Ban Pak Ing, driving your own car is most convenient. The roads are quite good with clear signs. Along the way, you will enjoy beautiful mountain and Mekong River views. I recommend bringing a camera or smartphone ready to capture many scenic spots.

Also, I suggest preparing suitable shoes for walking in gardens and bean plots, as some areas may have muddy or uneven ground. Don’t forget to bring drinking water and a sun hat to make your trip more comfortable and enjoyable.

Summary of Impressions from Ban Pak Ing

Ban Pak Ing in Chiang Khong is a destination not only for the unique hyacinth beans but also a place where I, mr.hotsia, felt the warmth of the community, a lifestyle deeply connected with nature, and a simplicity that many nowadays might have forgotten.

If you are looking for a travel experience different from Chiang Rai’s main attractions such asWat Rong KhunorDoi ChangI believe Ban Pak Ing will make you fall in love with another side of Chiang Rai for sure.

Finally, if you want to see the atmosphere and lifestyle at Ban Pak Ing more clearly, I recommend the video I recorded inHyacinth Beans, The Unrelated Bean at Ban Pak Ing, Chiang Khongwhich will help you visualize and feel like you are walking with me, mr.hotsia, in person.